Carrasqueira

A trip to Carrasqueira and Vila Nova de Milfontes, Portugal.

English Version

Carrasqueira is undoubtedly a unique place. Not so much for the town itself, but for the surprising stilted port that overlooks the estuary of the river Sado. I had seen pictures of this place on the internet and put it in my bucket list time ago. Its elevated walkways of sodden planks sit coarsely over the waters making for an uneasy stroll. You can feel the planks yield as you step on them and get the feeling you’re bouncing as you walk. Under heavy rain and with that Atlantic wind blowing its quite an adventure!

These causeways reach out far into the rippling waters of the river. Their pillars tied together with thick ropes, nailed to logs and weathered timbers. The odd dab of blue or red paint on the raw wood probably provides the locals with insight to be kept secret from visitors and the waves, as one trundles unnerved along the walkway, seem to send their applause: "Clap Flop, Flop Clap, Clap"

Each nook contains fishing nets, twine and reeds, tackle and Octopus nests just as varied as the fruits that these waters offer. A real feast for the senses! I have enjoyed spending hours there crouched, watching, intent on capturing beauty. I would wait for a change of the light or for the wind to die down. It has been a gift to be there waiting for the rain to stop, taking in the textures and the colours.